Description: These Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Imagine a juicy, cheesy cheeseburger filling enveloped in a warm, buttery biscuit, infused with the savory goodness of garlic and Parmesan. They’re fun to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for game day, parties, or a quick and satisfying family meal. Each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, making them a guaranteed hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar provides a more pronounced flavor)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (full-fat cream cheese is best for richness and texture)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (adjust to taste if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor)
- 1 tsp onion powder (adds a subtle depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (freshly ground black pepper is preferred)
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade biscuit dough works well; see tips for homemade option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated Parmesan is superior in flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness)
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely diced onion or bell pepper, sautéed with the ground beef for added flavor and texture
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce added to the beef mixture for depth of flavor.
- Optional: Sesame seeds for sprinkling on top of the bombs before baking for added texture and visual appeal.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the biscuits bake evenly and the filling gets nice and melty. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the bombs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.
Step 2: Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Draining the excess grease is crucial; nobody wants greasy cheeseburger bombs. Use a spoon or a grease separator to remove all the excess fat.
Step 3: Flavor Infusion: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings. This is where you can customize the flavor profile to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for added umami depth.
Step 4: Creamy Cheese Mixture: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. The cream cheese adds a delightful tang and creaminess, while the cheddar provides that classic cheeseburger flavor. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it; otherwise, it may not melt evenly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 5: Biscuit Prep: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate it into individual biscuits. On a lightly floured surface (to prevent sticking), flatten each biscuit into a circle. You can use a rolling pin or simply press them with your fingers. Aim for a diameter of about 4-5 inches, enough to hold a generous amount of filling. Be careful not to make them too thin, or they might tear when you fold them.
Step 6: Filling the Bombs: Place a generous spoonful (about 2-3 tablespoons) of the beef and cheese mixture in the center of each flattened biscuit. Don’t overfill, or the bombs will be difficult to seal.
Step 7: Sealing the Deal: Carefully fold the dough over the filling, bringing the edges together. Pinch the edges firmly to seal completely, ensuring that no filling can escape during baking. You can twist the top slightly for a decorative touch. Ensure they are completely sealed to prevent cheese from oozing out.
Step 8: Garlic Parmesan Magic: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will give the bombs a beautiful golden color and an irresistible savory flavor.
Step 9: Brush and Bake: Brush the tops of the cheeseburger bombs generously with the garlic Parmesan mixture. This will create a crispy, flavorful crust. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired, for added texture and visual appeal. Arrange the bombs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them to allow for even baking.
Step 10: Baking Time: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is heated through and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Step 11: Cool and Garnish: Let the bombs cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are simply irresistible! They are:
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of juicy ground beef, melted cheddar and cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan, and buttery biscuit dough is a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleasing: They are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as diced onions, pickles, or bacon.
- Portable: They are perfect for picnics, potlucks, and tailgating.
- Fun to Eat: The bite-sized format makes them a fun and interactive snack or meal.
- Comfort Food: There is something undeniably comforting about warm, cheesy bread and savory beef.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- They are also great with crispy french fries or sweet potato fries.
Tips:
- Homemade Biscuit Dough: If you prefer homemade biscuit dough, use your favorite recipe or search online for a reliable one. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as homemade dough may require slightly longer.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey or plant-based ground meat can be substituted for ground beef.
- Freezing: Cheeseburger Bombs can be frozen for future use. Bake them according to the instructions, then let them cool completely. Wrap each bomb individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them until heated through.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the ground beef for added flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the biscuits, as this can make them difficult to seal and cause the filling to leak out during baking.
- Seal Thoroughly: Ensure that the biscuits are sealed completely to prevent the filling from escaping.
- Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the bombs and adjust the baking time as needed.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimates will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: Approximately 250-350 per bomb
- Protein: 15-20 grams per bomb
- Sodium: 400-600 mg per bomb (depending on the salt content of the ingredients)
Conclusion:
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are a delightful and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their ease of preparation, combined with their irresistible flavor, makes them a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. The combination of juicy ground beef, melted cheeses, savory garlic and Parmesan, and warm biscuit dough is simply divine. Give them a try, and prepare to be amazed by their deliciousness! They are a fun twist on the classic cheeseburger that everyone will love.
Question and Answers:
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the cheeseburger bombs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure they are well-covered to prevent the dough from drying out. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the baking time if baking them directly from the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can bake them completely, let them cool, and then freeze them for later use. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Q2: I don’t have cream cheese. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: While cream cheese adds a lovely tang and creaminess, you can substitute it with other soft cheeses if needed. Mascarpone cheese would be a great alternative, providing a similar richness. You could also use ricotta cheese, but be aware that it has a slightly different texture. If you don’t have any soft cheeses on hand, you can add a tablespoon or two of sour cream to the ground beef mixture for a touch of moisture and tang. Keep in mind that the overall flavor and texture of the cheeseburger bombs may be slightly different with the substitution.
Q3: My biscuits are browning too quickly. What can I do?
A: If your biscuits are browning too quickly, you can tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil. This will help to slow down the browning process without preventing the filling from heating through. Another option is to lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees and bake them for a slightly longer time. Be sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent them from burning. Also make sure to position the baking sheet in the middle rack of the oven.
Q4: Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are great lean alternatives to ground beef. You can also use ground pork for a richer flavor. Just be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the cheese mixture. If you’re using ground turkey or chicken, you may want to add a little bit of olive oil to the skillet to help prevent it from drying out. You could even use a combination of different types of ground meat to create a unique flavor profile.
Q5: What are some other variations I can try?
A: The possibilities are endless! You can add diced bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky flavor. You can also add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, you can use crumbled vegetarian “beef” or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Gruyere, or provolone. Get creative and have fun with it! Consider adding a small dollop of your favorite burger sauce or a pickle slice to each bomb before sealing for an extra touch of burger authenticity.
